Course Descriptions

Advanced topics related to chromatin organisation, role of chromatin modelling during gene expression and regulation, messenger RNA transport, translation mechanisms (cap-dependent / independent, structure of ribosome and tRNA, special emphasis on transcriptional and translational checkpoints, ribosome shunting, RNA silencing and messenger RNA decay mechanisms.

Structure and organization of human chromosomes; chromosomal aberrations; diagnosis of genetic diseases; genetic counseling.

Methodologies used in molecular genetics; physical and genetics mapping, identification of genes, DNA sequencing techniques, studying the transcriptome and the proteome, genome replication, gene mutations, recombination mechanisms, DNA repair and molecular pathology.

Introduction to biological research through an independent, original project under the supervision of a faculty member, in order to provide hands-on experience with the advanced techniques of molecular biology.

Immunochemistry; structure of immunoglobulin molecules; antigen-antibody interactions; humoral and cellular immune responses.

Neuronal organization; rules of formation, maintenance and alterations of neuronal connections; mechanisms of neuronal signaling; integration and transformation of information by nerve cells.

Use of laboratory techniques in molecular biology through a supervised independent research project. The research topic and the special techniques are selected to facilitate development of a doctoral thesis project.

An extensive literature survey on a selected topic in molecular biology, presentation of a seminar and discussion of future research directions.

Cell-cell communication; classical and novel signaling pathways; cell surface and intracellular receptors; second messenger pathways.